Abia Leaders Back Otti’s Second Term, Reject Opposition Claims

Ikwuano stakeholders in Abia State on Wednesday voiced strong approval of Governor Alex Otti’s administration, declaring that opposition efforts to unseat him in the 2027 governorship election would fail.

The meeting was called in response to statements from three immediate past governors—Orji Uzor Kalu, Theodore Ahamefule Orji, and Okezie Ikpeazu—who had reportedly endorsed a campaign against Otti.

Key attendees included Adolphus Okebugwu, Friday Eluwa, Okezie Chukwuemeka, Emetu Chikezie, Mercy Alamba, Innocent Elogu, Iroabuchi Chukwuemeka, and Christopher Elogu.

Speaking at the gathering, Ikwuano LGA Mayor Anthony Nwaubani praised the state’s transformation under Otti, criticizing the opposition for failing to present viable alternatives.

“There is no vacancy in Government House in 2027. We must defeat the opposition,” Nwaubani said. “Criticism should be factual, but when it distorts reality, it becomes a disservice to the public. The strides in infrastructure and other sectors under Otti are visible to all.”

He added, “If you want to appreciate light, you must first experience darkness. Abia people know what it was like before Otti—businesses left, infrastructure decayed, and many considered relocating. Today, we see a state transformed. Abians who had moved away are returning, proud to identify with their state.”

Deputy Mayor Lucky Awuwa led a motion in which stakeholders passed a vote of confidence in Otti’s second-term bid.

“We are not influenced; Otti is a man of vision, determined and effective. Ikwuano will stand firmly behind him,” Awuwa said, urging residents to secure their Permanent Voters’ Cards ahead of the election.